All the Arts, All the Time

USC School of Theatre salutes Robert Redford

The USC School of Theatre has created the Robert Redford Award for Engaged Artists and will present the first one at a fund-raising dinner Feb. 10 to the man after whom it is named.

The school said it would present the award each year to artists “who have distinguished themselves not only in the exemplary quality, skill and innovation of their work but also in their public commitment to social responsibility, to increasing awareness of global issues and events and to inspiring and empowering young people.”

Redford, the star of such classic films as "All the President's Men," "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" and "The Way We Were," and an Academy Award-winning director (for "Ordinary People"), was cited for his work as an environmental activist and leader of the Sundance Institute and Film Festival.

Proceeds from the event at the Beverly Hills Wilshire will be used for scholarships at the School of Theatre. The event is open to the public, but be forewarned: Tickets are $375.

Information: (213) 821-4262.

-- Lee Margulies

Photo of Redford at the Sundance Film Festival in 2008: Amy Sancetta / Associated Press